Hybrid vs. electric vehicles: A comprehensive comparison

As electric vehicle (EV) sales surged by 60% in the US between 2022 and 2023, more consumers are evaluating whether to invest in an EV or a hybrid car. Both vehicle types promise environmental benefits and potential cost savings, but they differ significantly in their technology, costs, and driving experience. This blog delves into the key aspects of hybrid and electric cars to help you make an informed decision, with a particular focus on how these choices impact your car insurance.

Hybrid vs. electric cars: What’s the difference?

The primary difference between hybrid and electric cars comes down to how they are powered.

Hybrid vehicles: These cars use a combination of a gas-powered engine and an electric motor. The electric motor can either assist the gas engine (parallel hybrid) or operate independently (series hybrid). Common models include the Toyota Prius, Honda Accord Hybrid, and Hyundai Elantra Hybrid.

Electric vehicles (EVs): EVs run entirely on electric power stored in a battery. They do not have a traditional internal combustion engine. Notable examples are the Tesla Model 3, Chevrolet Bolt EV, and Ford Mustang Mach-E.

Purchase price

One of the first considerations for most car buyers is the purchase price. Here’s a snapshot of the average monthly payments for different vehicle types, based on data from the Experian State of the Automotive Finance Market Report, Q4 2021: 

• Diesel: $800
• Flex Fuel: $713
• Electric: $774
• Hybrid: $607
• Gasoline: $629

While the upfront cost of EVs tends to be higher than hybrids, government incentives can significantly offset this difference. In Canada, new EV buyers can receive up to $5,000 through the federal iZEV Program. Provinces like British Columbia and Quebec offer additional rebates up to $3,000 and $7,000, respectively. Despite these incentives, hybrids often remain more affordable at the point of purchase, but the long-term savings on fuel and maintenance make EVs a compelling option over time.

Running costs and fuel efficiency

One of the biggest selling points of EVs is the potential for lower running costs. EV owners can save a substantial amount on fuel since electricity is generally cheaper than gasoline. According to recent estimates, the average driver might save about $1,074 per year on fuel by switching to an EV. Additionally, EVs have fewer moving parts, which translates to lower maintenance costs. No oil changes, fewer brake replacements (thanks to regenerative braking), and fewer engine-related repairs are required.

Hybrids, while still reliant on gasoline, offer improved fuel efficiency compared to traditional gas-powered cars. For example, the Toyota Prius boasts an impressive fuel economy, making it a cost-effective option for those looking to reduce fuel expenses without committing to a full EV.

Insurance costs

Insurance is another critical factor to consider. EVs often have higher insurance premiums compared to hybrids and traditional gas-powered vehicles. This is due to several reasons:

• Higher Repair Costs: EVs contain expensive components such as lithium-ion batteries, which can be costly to repair or replace.
• Specialized Repairs: Not all repair shops are equipped to handle EVs, potentially leading to higher labour costs.
• Higher Purchase Price: The higher the vehicle's value, the more it costs to insure.

According to a study by Kelley Blue Book, over a five-year period, EV insurance can cost about $292 more than hybrid car insurance. While this might not be a dealbreaker, it’s an important consideration for budget-conscious consumers.

On the flip side, hybrids can also have higher insurance costs than traditional gas-powered vehicles but are generally cheaper to insure than EVs. This makes hybrids an attractive option for those looking to balance insurance costs with the benefits of eco-friendly driving.

However, insurance costs can vary significantly from car to car – not all electric vehicles will be more expensive to insure. Factors such as the vehicle’s make and model, safety features, and the driver’s personal history and location can all influence the final premium. It’s crucial to compare rates to understand how much you’ll actually be paying. We can help you find competitive insurance rates tailored to your specific vehicle and needs, ensuring you get the best deal possible.

Charging and refuelling

One of the most significant considerations for potential EV owners is the charging infrastructure. While home charging stations offer convenience, installing one can be expensive. Public charging stations are becoming more widespread, but availability can vary, and using them can sometimes be costly. Additionally, charging times can range from 30 minutes at a fast charger to several hours at a standard home charger.

Hybrids don't face the same challenges since they use gasoline. This means that hybrid owners can refuel at any gas station, eliminating range anxiety – the fear of running out of battery power without a charging station nearby. Hybrids also benefit from regenerative braking, which helps recharge the battery while driving, further extending their range without needing an external power source.

Environmental impact

Both hybrids and EVs offer environmental benefits over traditional gas-powered vehicles. EVs produce zero tailpipe emissions, making them an excellent choice for reducing greenhouse gases and other pollutants. However, it’s important to consider the source of the electricity used to charge EVs. If the electricity comes from renewable sources, the environmental benefits are maximized. Conversely, if the electricity is generated from fossil fuels, the overall environmental impact is higher.

Hybrids, while not as clean as EVs, still offer reduced emissions and better fuel efficiency compared to conventional cars. This makes them a viable option for environmentally conscious drivers who are not ready to switch to a fully electric vehicle.

Resale value and depreciation

Depreciation is a crucial factor in the total cost of ownership. EVs tend to depreciate faster than hybrids and traditional cars, with a five-year depreciation rate of nearly 50%. This rapid depreciation is due in part to the fast-paced advancements in EV technology, which can make older models less desirable.

Hybrids, on the other hand, have a better depreciation rate, averaging around 37.4% over five years. This makes them a more stable investment in terms of resale value. Only pickup trucks tend to depreciate less than hybrids.

Battery life and replacement

Battery replacement is a significant consideration for both hybrids and EVs. For EVs, battery life can vary but typically lasts between 10 to 20 years. Manufacturers like Nissan and Tesla offer warranties of 8 years or 100,000 miles. However, rapid charging can accelerate battery degradation, whereas slower, at-home charging can extend battery life.

Hybrid batteries generally need replacement every 150,000 miles, which for many drivers translates to about 15 years. While this can be a costly replacement, it’s less frequent than the concerns some consumers have about EV batteries.

Performance and driving experience

EVs are known for their instant torque, providing quick acceleration and a smoother, quieter ride compared to traditional cars. This makes them a joy to drive, particularly in urban settings with frequent stop-and-go traffic.

Hybrids offer versatile performance, switching between the electric motor and the gas engine as needed. Many hybrids come with an EV mode for short distances, allowing for electric-only driving. They also typically offer all-wheel drive (AWD) options, which are valuable for driving in adverse weather conditions.

The bottom line

Choosing between a hybrid and an electric vehicle involves weighing various factors, including purchase price, running costs, insurance premiums, charging infrastructure, environmental impact, and personal driving habits.

For budget-conscious consumers, hybrids might offer a more balanced approach with lower upfront costs and moderate insurance premiums. They provide improved fuel efficiency and environmental benefits without the range anxiety associated with EVs.

On the other hand, EVs represent a step towards a sustainable future with lower long-term running costs, zero tailpipe emissions, and a unique driving experience. However, higher initial costs, potential range limitations, and higher insurance premiums are important considerations.

Regardless of your choice, ensuring you have the right insurance coverage is crucial. EVs and hybrids often come with higher insurance premiums due to their complex technology and higher repair costs. It's essential to shop around and compare quotes to find the best coverage for your new eco-friendly vehicle.

Also read

• Is buying a hybrid car worth it?
• Are electric cars more expensive to insure?
• The best electric cars in Canada
• The challenges of owning an electric car